The Evolution of Virat Kohli’s Nickname: Cheeku, Kohlinator, or The Run Machine?

Virat Kohli, the renowned Indian cricketer, has not only captured the imagination of cricket fans worldwide with his exceptional batting skills but also earned a plethora of nicknames over the years. One of the most intriguing and well-known of these nicknames is Cheeku, a name that holds a special place in the memories of many. But how did this particular nickname come to be associated with the batting maestro?

Origins of the Nickname “Cheeku”

According to Virat Kohli’s own account, the nickname “Cheeku” was given to him by his state coach. The name originated from a unique physical trait: Kohli’s big ears. The coach, noticing this distinctive feature, drew inspiration from a popular cartoon character. In the comic book Champak, there was a rabbit character named “Cheeku” who was easily identified by his large ears. The coach decided to nickname Kohli after this character, and the name stuck.

Kohli’s state coach was not the only one to bestow this nickname upon him. Additionally, when playing for India, Kohli’s friends gave him the same nickname due to his resemblance to the cartoon character. This moniker became a part of his identity and was widely recognized by fans and fellow players alike.

More Nicknames: Kohlinator and The Run Machine

While “Cheeku” is a beloved nickname, Virat Kohli has also been given other monikers that capture different aspects of his cricketing prowess.

Kohlinator

One popular nickname is “Kohlinator,” a combination of Kohli and Terminator. This nickname emphasizes Kohli's relentless and unyielding batting abilities, reminiscent of the Terminator film series, where the protagonist is portrayed as a tireless and unstoppable force. Recently, Kohli has been performing remarkably well in various formats of cricket, leading some to dub him the modern-day Kohlinator.

The Run Machine

The Run Machine is another nickname that has been associated with Virat Kohli. This name highlights Kohli's ability to score runs consistently and numerous times at an incredible pace. With his lightning-fast scoring and ability to navigate tricky situations, Kohli has become synonymous with exceptional hitting and record-breaking performances.

Impact and Recognition

The nicknames of Virat Kohli not only reflect his physical traits or performance but also connect him to the spirit of the game and his fans. These monikers have become an integral part of his legacy and a testament to his remarkable journey in cricket.

Kohli’s journey from his early days with a nickname like “Cheeku” to the high-flying “Kohlinator” and “The Run Machine” highlights the evolution of a cricketer from youth to one of the greatest of all time. Each nickname tells a story and represents an aspect of his legendary career.